CHILLICOTHE — Ross County clinical psychologist Dr. James Hagen has been named the 2016 Ohio Crisis Intervention Team mental health practitioner of the year.

Hagen was nominated for the honor by Juni Johnson, executive director of the Paint Valley Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Board.

“Dr. Hagen is the vital principle of the CIT training in the Paint Valley ADAMH Board region,” Johnson stated. “Dr. Hagen brings a wealth of knowledge as a clinical psychologist. His ability to positively interact and collaborate with law enforcement makes him a true champion of the program.”

Others also had praise for Hagen.

“Jim Hagen has been instrumental in getting the Crisis Intervention Training to Ross County and the surrounding areas,” said Sgt. Ron Myers, of the Chillicothe Police Department. “Dr. Hagen has gone beyond what is expected of someone in his capacity and is available whenever needed.”

“The five-county area had two trained (CIT) officers in 2013 and now there are 81,” said Jeffrey Montgomery, of the Chillicothe VA Medical Center. “Dr. Jim Hagen has played an integral role in increasing the sensitivity and de-escalation skills of officers to persons with mental illness and our veterans in crisis situations in our communities.”

Through CIT training, officers receive about 40 hours of work in areas including psychiatric disorders, substance abuse issues, de-escalation techniques and in legal issues related to mental health and substance abuse. They also receive empathy training from those with mental illness and gain exposure to the views of family members of those suffering from a mental illness.